How Much Does a Nashville Trip Cost?
Nashville's 'affordable Southern city' reputation is about a decade out of date. The city has become one of the most visited in the country, and prices have followed. That doesn't mean a Nashville trip has to break the bank — but going in with a realistic budget prevents a lot of surprises. Here's what to actually expect.
Lodging: The Biggest Variable
Downtown hotels range from $200-$500/night on weekends. Boutique hotels in the Gulch run similar. Airbnbs in East Nashville, 12 South, or Germantown can be a better deal — especially for groups. A well-located Airbnb sleeping 6-8 people often runs $300-$600/night, which splits down to $50-$100 per person per night. Weekdays and off-season trips are significantly cheaper across the board.
Food: Budget $60-$120 Per Day
A full day of eating well in Nashville — coffee and pastry in the morning, a lunch entree, and a dinner with an appetizer and drinks — realistically runs $60-$120 per person. You can eat cheaper if you're strategic. A meat-and-three at Arnold's Country Kitchen runs $10-$12. Hot chicken at a legit spot is $12-$18. Broadway bars charge bar prices for bar food.
Drinks: Budget $50-$100 Per Night Out
Beer on Broadway runs $7-$12. Cocktails $12-$16. Some bars charge a cover after 9pm — typically $5-$15. A full night out on Broadway for one person including covers, drinks, and a late-night snack realistically runs $75-$150. Off-Broadway bars and neighborhood spots are cheaper.
Transportation: Budget $40-$80 Per Day
If you're relying on Uber and Lyft (the standard for most visitors), budget $40-$80 per day for a group. Airport rides run $25-$45 each way. Surge pricing on Friday and Saturday nights after 10pm can push single rides to $30-$50 from Broadway. Walking and scooters can cut this if you stay in walkable neighborhoods.
Activities: Mostly Free or Cheap
Live music on Broadway is free — you don't pay a cover to walk in. The Country Music Hall of Fame is $30. The Johnny Cash Museum is $22. Ryman Auditorium tours run $25-$35. Concerts range from $35 for smaller venues to $200+ for major acts at Bridgestone Arena. Many Nashville experiences — parks, neighborhoods, the murals — are completely free.
Total Nashville Trip Budget by Tier
Budget traveler (shared Airbnb, casual meals, free activities): $150-$250/day. Mid-range (decent hotel or Airbnb, good restaurants, a couple of activities): $250-$400/day. Luxury (boutique hotel, top restaurants, VIP experiences): $500+/day. A long weekend for a group of 4 splitting an Airbnb realistically runs $1,200-$2,000 per person all-in.
Save on Groceries With Pre-Arrival Delivery
One of the easiest ways to cut costs on a Nashville trip is to handle your own groceries and drinks rather than paying bar and restaurant prices for everything. Music City Weekend Co. stocks Airbnbs and vacation rentals with groceries, drinks, and snacks before you arrive. It's cheaper than running to a store on night one and way cheaper than buying everything at bar prices. Shop the full catalog at musiccityweekend.co/shop, or learn more about Nashville grocery delivery and fridge stocking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money should I bring to Nashville for a weekend?
Budget $500-$800 per person for a long weekend in Nashville, excluding lodging. That covers food, drinks, transportation, and a few activities. Add $200-$400 per night for your share of lodging depending on where you stay.
Is Nashville expensive for a girls trip or bachelorette party?
Nashville is one of the more expensive bachelorette destinations in the country. A full Nashville bachelorette weekend including lodging, activities, and going out typically runs $500-$1,500 per person. Planning ahead and splitting a large Airbnb is the most effective way to manage costs.
Are Nashville restaurants expensive?
Mid-range Nashville restaurants run $20-$40 per person for entrees. Upscale spots run $60-$100+ per person with drinks. Budget options like meat-and-three spots and casual hot chicken joints are $10-$18. Overall, Nashville dining is comparable to any major US city.
How much does a night out on Broadway cost?
A realistic Broadway night out for one person runs $75-$150 including drinks, potential bar covers, and a late-night bite. Groups can spend more. The bars themselves don't charge admission during the day, but most charge covers on weekend nights after 9pm.